South Middle School Celebrates 8th Graders Moving to High School

South Middle School celebrated their 8^th grade scholars who will be entering high school next year. The celebration was held at Newburgh Free Academy and welcomed family, friends, and community members to honor the scholars. City of Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey gave a keynote speech in both English and Spanish. The Pledge of Allegiance was presented by NFA JROTC, the 8^th grade chorus performed the National anthem and A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman. Student leaders, Rocco Rammone and Rylee Merli were recognized as “valedictorian” and “salutatorian” for their school.

The Triple C Award was presented by school counselor, Mr. Kareem Donaldson and the Exceptional Student Award was presented on behalf of Senator James Skoufis. Finally, all students were presented a certificate and the newly named 9^th grade scholars processed out.

More about the Triple C Award: Attorney General Letitia James is pleased to continue Triple C Awards program to recognize the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students. Whether succeeding in academic pursuits, participating in community service, displaying leadership skills, or overcoming personal obstacles, these students provide us with hope for an even brighter future. 

One of the award recipients is Jerry Espinoza. He has flourished academically and has been an asset to our school community as a leader. He has volunteered to support many English Language Learners who have transitioned to South from another country by leading tours of the building, answering questions for the students and families, and helping them acclimate to this new environment. Not to mention, he has maintained honor roll status throughout his middle school experience. 

The second award recipient is Gavin Villano. He has excelled academically and demonstrated an unwavering love of learning. On many occasions, he has helped to lead US History classroom lessons. He has spent most of his lunch periods in classrooms working independently, in small groups, and engaging in intellectual conversations with his teachers. Not only has he secured high honor roll status every quarter, he leads by example with his maturity and ability to rise above adversity. At one point, we facilitated a peer mediation in due to a disagreement. Gavin was able to use that platform as an informational session on welding. Gavin Villano, thank you for your courage commitment and character. 

All photos can be viewed and downloaded for free here. 

The full program can be found below. 

Welcome Remarks

Chanté Brooks (8th grade Assistant Principal)

Pledge of Allegiance

NFA ROTC

National Anthem

SMS 8th Grade Chorus

Guest Speaker

Mayor Torrance Harvey

8th Grade Chorus

Mr. Rick Santacroce

A Million Dreams (from The Greatest Showman)

Words and Music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul

Arranged by Mac Huff

Recognition of Student Leaders

Rocco Tammone– Valedictorian

Rylee Merli– Salutatorian

Triple C Award

Kareem Donaldson (8th grade School Counselor)

Exceptional Student Award

Senator J. Skoufis

Presentation of Certificates

SMS Administrators & SMS Teachers

Scholar Montage

Closing Remarks

Ms. Chante’ Brooks ( 8th grade Asst. Principal)

9th Grade Scholar Procession

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!